Basements can be challenging to decorate and design, especially when it comes to picking the right flooring. Because basements are prone to moisture and flooding, it’s important to pick a flooring option that can withstand these two conditions. In this article, we discuss what factors to consider before choosing a flooring type, as well as the best options based on your needs.
Addressing these 3 factors is crucial to determining the type of flooring you’ll want to use:
Factor #1: Moisture Resistance – Is it a dry area, or do you have issues with flooding every year?
Factor #2: Durability – What are you planning on using your basement for? Choose a flooring option that could withstand the wear and tear of daily use.
Factor #3: Style and design – Do you want a cozy, den-like basement or a space that’s going to see heavy use and activity?
Types of Basement Flooring
1. Carpet – Best for Dry Basements and a Cozy Feel
For those looking to make their basement a cozy retreat, carpet flooring is the option to choose from. It could be more prone to becoming damp and moldy than other options but moisture-resistant carpet padding is one strategy to mitigate damage.
2. Engineered wood – Best for Adding Elegance in your basement
For a moderately priced option for a rich, natural wood finish (that’s more adaptable than solid wood), engineered wood is the best flooring option. It has an attractive appearance that could be good for home resale value but the surface could scratch and dent easily.
3. Luxury Vinyl – Best for all Basement Types
You can choose either vinyl plank flooring or vinyl tile flooring. Luxury Vinyl Planks (LVP) are a popular choice for basement flooring because it is durable, water-resistant, and easy to install. Cons are that it could be difficult to remove once installed and can dent or tear.
4. Tile – Best for High Moisture Basements in Warm Regions
Tile is one of the most expensive flooring options but a longtime go-to–it’s water-resistant, durable, and built to last. It looks stylish and high-end but could feel hard and cold during winter, although you can always add area rugs for warmth.
To summarize, picking the right basement flooring is important because the space itself presents unique challenges. Now that you understand the different flooring types, you can make a wise decision. This ensures your basement is functional and looks good.
